Paraguay Safety Guide 2025
Stay safe during your Paraguay trip with essential safety information.
Safety Overview
Paraguay is generally safer than many South American countries for travelers who exercise standard precautions. Asunción requires awareness in specific areas including Mercado 4, the bus terminal, and downtown at night, while the upscale suburbs of Villa Morra and Carmelitas are very safe.
Paraguay, the heart of South America, offers a unique blend of Guaraní indigenous culture and Spanish colonial heritage. From the vibrant capital of Asunción along the Paraguay River to the historic Jesuit Missions and the stunning natural beauty of the Chaco region, this landlocked nation provides an authentic South American experience away from typical tourist crowds.
Current Advisory
Exercise normal precautions in most areas. Increased caution in downtown Asunción at night and near the border crossing at Ciudad del Este where petty crime and contraband activity are elevated.
Last updated: 2025-01
Travel Advisories
Official warnings and recommendations from government sources.
US State Department
Exercise increased caution in Paraguay due to crime. Some areas have increased risk.
UK Foreign Office
Take normal safety precautions; be vigilant against petty theft especially in crowded markets and public transport
Official Advisory Sources
- 🇺🇸 US: travel.state.gov
- 🇬🇧 UK: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
- 🇨🇦 Canada: travel.gc.ca
- 🇦🇺 Australia: smartraveller.gov.au
Safety Checklist & Emergency Card
Download our printable safety checklist and emergency contact card.
Common Scams to Avoid
Be aware of these common tourist scams.
Express kidnapping near ATMs
Criminals observe people withdrawing cash from street ATMs then follow and rob them. More common near Mercado 4 and bus terminal area.
Unlicensed taxi overcharging
Unmarked vehicles posing as taxis charge inflated rates or take longer routes. Most common at the airport and in tourist areas.
Fake police
Individuals posing as plainclothes police ask to inspect wallets or bags for 'counterfeit currency checks' — a ruse to steal cash.
Currency exchange fraud
Unofficial money changers on the street offer favorable rates but provide counterfeit Guaraní notes or shortchange tourists.
Essential Safety Tips
Practical advice for staying safe during your trip.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public
Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during daylight hours
Do not drive outside Asunción at night due to poor lighting and road hazards
Keep hotel doors locked and valuables in hotel safes
Sit in the back seat of taxis and always wear seatbelts
Do not resist if confronted during a robbery
Register with your country's embassy in Asuncion before travel; the US Embassy is located in Villa Morra district.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying smartphones on the street, particularly around Mercado 4 and the bus terminal.
Use only official yellow taxis or app-based services (InDriver) and never hail unmarked cars, especially at night.
Be aware of express kidnapping scams near ATMs; withdraw cash in secure bank lobbies or hotel lobbies rather than street ATMs.
Safety by Traveler Type
Solo Travelers
Solo travel in Paraguay is manageable with standard precautions. Stick to Villa Morra and Carmelitas in Asunción, use app-based transport at night, and connect with hostel staff for local safety advice. The country's small size and friendly people make solo travel generally pleasant.
Female Travelers
Female travelers should exercise standard precautions. Machismo culture exists but harassment is generally verbal rather than physical. Travel with groups at night, use app-based taxis, avoid walking alone in downtown Asunción after dark, and dress modestly outside tourist areas.
Families
Paraguay is quite family-friendly with Paraguayans being very welcoming to children. Vaccinate against hepatitis A and typhoid before visiting, use bottled water throughout, apply insect repellent near water, and stay in established neighborhoods. Medical facilities are adequate in Asunción.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex relationships are legal in Paraguay but not legally recognized. Public attitudes are conservative, particularly outside Asunción. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion with public displays of affection. Asunción has a small but active LGBTQ+ community with several friendly venues in Villa Morra.
Health & Medical
Stay healthy during your trip.
Vaccinations
Routine vaccines recommended (MMR, DPT, etc.). Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended for most travelers. Yellow Fever required if arriving from endemic countries. Hepatitis B for those with specific risk factors. Rabies for adventure travelers. Consult doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.
Water Safety
Not safe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Ice in restaurants generally safe in tourist areas but use caution. Bottled water widely available and inexpensive (PYG 2,000-5,000 / $0.25-0.65 per liter).
Food Safety
Medical Facilities
Medication Tips
- Bring enough prescription medication for your entire trip plus extra
- Keep medications in original containers with pharmacy labels
- Carry a letter from your doctor explaining your medications
- Some medications may be restricted - research before traveling
- Pack basic medications: pain relievers, anti-diarrheal, antihistamines
Emergency Contacts
Important numbers to have on hand.
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance
Medical Emergency
Hospitals and clinics
Your Embassy
Consular assistance
Tourist Police
Tourist assistance
Before You Go
- Register with your embassy's travel notification program
- Save emergency numbers in your phone
- Note your hotel's address in local language
- Share your itinerary with family/friends
- Know your travel insurance emergency hotline
Travel Confidently in Paraguay
Get our complete safety guide with emergency card, insurance recommendations, and area-by-area safety ratings.
Download Safety Guide